January - Royal Oak (Gorton)
The Royal Oak
114 Cross Lane, Gorton, Manchester M18 8NZ
The Stockport & South Manchester CAMRA Pub of the Month for January is the Royal Oak on Cross Lane in Gorton. Dave Hanson has been along.
The Royal Oak is a good example of that much endangered, and often overlooked, pub - a back street boozer which is the heart of its community.
Many years ago the Royal Oak was owned by Boddington's, from whence it passed eventually into the hands of Punch Taverns. Some five or so years ago the pub entered a period of changing landlords resulting in opening and closing on an almost monthly basis (or so it felt). Eventually the pub was closed and metal shutters went up all around. "That is it" we all feared, because in the current financial climate a boarded up pub rarely reopens in its former role.
Along came the management team who also own the Strawberry Duck in Clayton. They were looking for another outlet and took on the Royal Oak. After some six to nine months of renovation the pub re-opened with the steady hands of Les Park and Lyn Crossthwaite at the helm. As soon as the doors opened locals returned. Now there is always something going on with darts and domino teams (both ladies and mens), karaoke, open mic evenings and frequent live entertainment plus of course lively gossip and banter.
Real ale sales have been built up such that two-and-a-half handpulls can be supported. "How many?" I hear you say. Sharp's Doombar and Tetley's Dark Mild are the two permanents. The third accommodates rotating guest ales, often from Lancaster Brewery, on occasions as demand dictates.
The Royal Oak is not only about beer, but the locals and their community. You are always made to feel welcome, so why not come along around 8pm on Tuesday (note change of day) 20th January and experience the atmosphere.
Being a back street local, the Royal Oak is hidden from view "in the back streets" unless you know where to look. Busses 168, 169 and 171 pass the door. The 203 (plus 201 and 204 from Manchester) will drop you on Hyde Road from where it is a short walk.